Bye Bye (Cebuano)

Today started out a little different. We were allowed to sleep in a little because our wake up call wasn’t until 9 AM. Thank you Jesus! The team got all packed up and headed to breakfast for our last taste of famous omelets, donuts, and fettuccine Alfredo of the trip. The team then gathered for a time of debriefing. Lets just say many, many, MANY tears were shed. The team realized just how amazing this trip truly was. We had from 10:30 AM to 1 PM to share about how God moved through us and give any shout-outs to team members. We were in no rush, and having that time to really open up about what we’ve all experienced together was touching. The life change, culture shock, and unconditional love will never be forgotten by each individual. By this time our stomachs were hungry for lunch. Originally we were supposed to eat at Montebello, but our wonderful leaders and Quest staff planned a special Jollikids Party for a special birthday boy. Happy birthday Garrett, we hope this birthday party was the perfect introduction to your adulthood as an 18 year old! Since KFred also spent his 18th birthday at Jollibee many moons ago, it was only appropriate that we continued the tradition through Garrett. The party was a success with TONS of food, games, and dance numbers. After the party the team headed to SM City Cebu, an enormous mall. Inside this monstrosity we felt at home again, surrounded by familiar stores and food places. The team split into groups and set out to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and so much more. After exploring the mall for 2-3 hours, we met at the entrance and loaded buses again. We began the long journey to Sarah Lee and Les Tilka’s house for one last official gathering as a team with the Quest staff. We ate delicious Mexican food that included chips and salsa, tacos with chicken and beef, and several desserts for Garrett’s birthday. Then Mary Madden, Garrett, and Emma handed out specialized superlatives to each and every team member. Awards ranged from “most likely to laugh too hard at their own joke” to “most missed based on amount of blog comments”. After the team gathered around the Tilka’s T.V. to watch a 10 minute video that showed some of the best parts of our journey. Special thanks to Quest staff for creating it. It was this short video that reminded the team of so many great memories that had been made with 41 new friends. Some cried at how quickly these days have blown by while others smiled at how many tremendous things God has done. The time had come where we said our goodbyes to the staff that our team has come to love as family. Tears rolled down faces as we boarded the buses for the last time. Lets just say this has been an emotional day for everyone. One hour later we were at the Cebu Airport checking our bags in. The team is preparing to board our first flight from Cebu to South Korea. We are already missing the Philippines but we are excited to see our friends and family back home! See y’all soon!

I cant wait to hear about all of this from her! I love that she and all the others have had a great and life changing experience! But I know that you all will all be so thankful to be back in y’alls own bed and much needed family and friends love! I WANNA SEE VIDEOS!!

I am thrilled that my baby girl is on her way home but know she is sad that this trip is coming to an end…..to not be with all of you anymore, at least in the Philippines. These relationships will last a lifetime with leaders and students.

So thankful for this opportunity! Halle, we can’t wait to see you!! (Hope you didn’t shop too much that your suitcase was over the limit.)

Rest up and safe travels team- “well done, good and faithful servant”
💜Daube Family

HAPPY BIRTHDAY G!!! I love y’all & I cannot wait to see y’all when you get home! God worked through y’all these past few days and I know that y’all did incredible things! All of inside out misses y’all! See y’all soon!

I don’t know most of you but I feel like I do by following this incredible experience. From the words in your blogs and the messages from Chaddad- it sounds like you have all given it all to God during this trip and I know all of the parents, loved ones & friends are so proud of the people you are. Thanks again for inviting us in!

I know that coming home is full of mixed emotions, not to mention added exhaustion from the travel. All of us want you safe in Georgia soon but we know you’ll come back changed with part of your heart back in the Pines.

So beyond words thankful for this team of leaders who have taken time away from their reality to share this time with y’all. So I apologize in advance if I give you an awkward – ugly cry hug.

Grayson- you can pretty much expect that ugly cry hug. You are so loved. We are so proud of you & grateful to God for using this beautiful place, its people, and your teams to shape your character. Never lose that. 💛
P.S. PB says she “kind of” misses you but she just tries to forget about you & she’s fine..but you’re the only one that gives shoulder rides so I guess you can come home.

Thankful to you all for answering God’s call to go. Loved every blog post, really helped my Mamma’s heart to hear the amazing ride you all have been on. The relationships you have made, the experiences that you’ve had, these are things you will remember for a lifetime. I know that God is so pleased with all you have done.
Thank you leadership team for taking such good care of our kids. Words cannot express my grateful heart. These kids will be forever changed.
Praying for safe travels home. Glad you’re coming home, but sad you have to leave the Pines. You have left a piece of your heart there for sure. I can’t wait to see you Sarah!

Again I’m so sad that this adventure comes to a close – I know my girl so well and I know she is heartbroken to have this amazing experience be over so fast – it’s like I can feel her pain already. Y’all have done so much in such a short period of time ! Safe travels home – thank you for all of the wonderful updates over the past two weeks – it’s been the highlight of everyday for me. And Happy Birthday Garrett!!